Apple is progressing in the development of its inaugural smart glasses, aimed at competing with Meta’s Ray-Ban Meta AI eyewear. The focus is on integrating cameras, microphones, and artificial intelligence capabilities. Reports from Bloomberg indicate that the tech leader is creating a custom low-power chip for this device, anticipated to be launched within the next two years.
Highlights
Features of Apple Smart Glasses
The smart glasses are expected to be available by 2026 or 2027, offering various features including photo and video capturing, real-time translations, and potentially AI-enhanced environmental awareness, akin to Meta’s Visual Intelligence system. These specifications imply that Apple could provide functionalities such as object recognition, product information searches, and navigation support.
Chip Technology and Efficiency
The chip that will power the glasses is reportedly derived from the System in Package (SiP) technology found in the Apple Watch, noted for its compactness and energy efficiency when compared to chips used in iPhones or iPads. Apple has even tailored this chip to manage multiple cameras and improve battery longevity, which are essential features for wearable technology. Taiwanese chip manufacturer TSMC is identified as the principal production partner, with mass production expected to initiate by 2027.
Other Technological Advancements by Apple
In addition to the smart glasses, Apple is also working on next-generation chips for its Mac series, likely named M6 and M7, as well as processors for AI servers to bolster its expanding Apple Intelligence platform. The company has already started to embed AI features in iPhones, introducing capabilities such as message summarisation, email drafting, and ChatGPT integration.
As Meta continues to lead in the smart glasses sector, Apple’s ventures signify a significant effort to disrupt that market share, not only through advanced hardware but also by integrating its silicon, software, and AI more seamlessly.
